FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does “Doula” mean?
A Doula is a compassionate and experienced guide who offers unwavering support to birthing individuals and their families. This nurturing presence extends beyond the physical realm, embracing emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects. With deep understanding and empathy, doulas empower families to navigate the journey of childbirth with resilience and confidence, fostering a sacred and transformative experience. A Doula is not a medical professional, although doulas usually have a lot of experience with birth. A doula does not give medical advice but will help you ask the right questions. A doula does not perform medical procedures. A Doula does not make any decisions on your behalf but will help you understand your options.
How early should I hire a Doula?
It is never too early to hire a Doula! Sometimes the ideal time to hire one is 5-6 months before your estimated due date so that you can get acquainted and build a relationship.
I have an OB/Midwife and a Nurse do I still need a Doula?
Absolutely. Doctors, Midwives, and Nurses all play pivotal roles in your birth experience and will each support your birth in their professional way. These people are highly trained medical experts and as such are responsible for monitoring your safety and the safety of your baby during labor and delivery. Doulas provide continuous emotional support, personalized guidance, and comfort measures that complement medical care. Their holistic approach focuses on your inner strength, fears, and desires, helping you birth with mindfulness and connection. With a doula's presence, you're embraced in a cocoon of understanding, ensuring you feel heard, empowered, and fully supported throughout your transformative journey.
What are the benefits of a Doula?
While a labor and birth Doulas impact can be immeasurably positive to mother, baby, and families, labor Doulas are also statistically proven to improve outcomes: Read HERE for evidence based research
o 31% decrease in the use of Pitocin*
o 28% decrease in the risk of C-section*
o 12% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
o 9% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
o 14% decrease in the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery
o 34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience*
Will you replace my partner?
Not at all. Your partner's unique role of love and support remains deeply valued. A doula's presence complements this by providing additional knowledge, guidance, and comfort, allowing your partner to engage with confidence and connection. Together, as a triad of support, you create a harmonious space where love, strength, and understanding converge, nurturing your ability to birth instinctively.
Are Doulas just for home birth and birth centers?
Whether at home, birth center, or hospital, doulas offer unwavering support, tailored to your needs. Their presence is a guiding light, fostering empowerment, mindfulness, and connection, no matter where you choose to birth. With a doula by your side, your birth space becomes a sanctuary of trust, allowing you to navigate the path ahead with strength and grace.
What Happens If I Need a C-section?
Even in a surgical setting, a doula is there to explain what is happening and guide you through the procedure. She is also there during recovery to help with the first breastfeeding and bonding.
When will you arrive to support my labor?
Your doula will arrive at your home or laboring location in early active stages and if you are not birthing at home, will follow you to the birth center or hospital as labor progresses. If your preference is to labor at home until far into your labor, Vanessa is very confident and comfortable creating this support. In the event on an induction, a doula will arrive when the contraction pattern begins.
What does “on call” mean?
When your Doula is on call it means that between 38-42 weeks she will be within 2 hours of your chosen location at all times and available to provide needed support.